XC Watchlist: Karli Leighton (Mt Ararat HS)

Maine 2018 XC Previews

Aug 21, 2018

XC Watchlist: Karli Leighton

School: Mt Ararat HS

Year of Graduation: 2021

2017 State Meet Finish: 9th in Class A 19:50.03

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I've been running since I was 8 and I would go up to Eastport ME for the 4th of July every year and I would run the kids mile, I later joined my town's XC team and I've done XC ever since.

What has your summer training consisted of? How much mileage you putting in?

I have very unique training I roller ski three days a week and I then run the other days with a rest day usually on Sunday. I do roughly 40 miles a week.

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

I think that my main goal this year is to place higher in states and to go to New England's again. I would also like to improve my PR.

What is your favorite workout?

I don't really have a favorite workout but I do enjoy the roller skiing workouts.

What did you learn from last xc season that will help you improve in 2018?

Last year I had a hard time pacing myself in the start of a race, I would burn myself out sometimes if I went to fast in the first half mile so this year I'm going to run more evenly paced races.

What is your favorite course to run in Maine?

I enjoy most of the courses I run on, but I would say my favorites are the Mt. Blue course and the Belfast course.

Out of all your running accomplishments so far, which stands out the most?

I think the accomplishment that stands out the most to me is being the only girl on my team to qualify for New England's.

What do you love most about running?

I love running through the trails and seeing how beautiful the forest is, that is why I love how XC is all different kinds of trails and it's also why I don't really like track.

When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?

When I'm not running I roller ski which I actually enjoy more than running and it's nice to do different things throughout the week so my training is not repetitive.

Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?'

Before racing I do an anti cramp breathing exercise that has not failed. I have a very sensitive stomach when it comes to cramps and I always time when I eat my food so I don't get cramps. My team also does a cheer right before the race.

Favorite quote?

I don't have a favorite quote.

Snapchat or Instagram?

My insta is k_l8n

What shoes do you race/train in?

This year I'm racing in the Saucony Carrera spikes and I train in the ON cloud flow.

What professional athlete would you most like to meet?

I would absolutely love to meet Jessie Diggins from the US Nordic ski team.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is probably sushi.

One word to describe yourself

Determined